In Canada, omega-3s from fish pack a stronger punch than flaxseed and other oils when it comes to cancer prevention, according to a first-ever University of Guelph study. Prof. David Ma discovered that marine-based omega-3s are eight times more effective at inhibiting tumor development and growth.
“This study is the first to compare the cancer-fighting potency of plant- versus marine-derived omega-3s on breast tumor development,” said the professor in the Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences. “There is evidence that both omega-3s from plants and marine sources are protective against cancer and we wanted to determine which form is more effective.”
Ma found overall exposure to marine-based omega-3s reduced the size of the tumors by 60 to 70 percent and the number of tumors by 30 percent. Based on the study, Ma said humans should consume two to three servings of fish a week to have the same effect.